Foresight and Forecast: The Future of Gerontological Nursing for the Next 50 Years.

The World Health Organization recognizes that aging is a life-long process. Aging is a universal phenomenon, and the number of people aged ≥65 years is expected to increase exponentially over the next 30 to 50 years. Thus, the universality and globalization of aging requires that our interconnected societies be equipped to meet the needs of humans across all developmental and life stages. The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic taught us to be agile, innovative, and always prepared to tackle new health issues that target older adults and their communities. Thus, the future of gerontological nursing must support optimal aging through practice, education, research, and policy initiatives. In recognition of the 50th anniversary, the current article forecasts future priorities and how gerontological nursing will address persistent challenges while capitalizing on opportunities to optimize health congruent with individuals' preferences and abilities, improve the care of older adults, and advance the study of aging. [(12), 31-40.].